eNews Leadership Updates | August 7, 2026

Ena Williams

 

Dear Colleagues,

Welcome to the first installment of our new AONL Leadership Updates. As part of our commitment to greater transparency and member engagement, these updates will provide a closer look at the work of your AONL Board of Directors, the priorities guiding our decisions and the many ways you can help shape the future of nursing leadership.

AONL's greatest strength is its members. Every day, nurse leaders across the country advance quality, safety, workforce well-being, innovation and patient outcomes. The role of the AONL Board is to amplify that impact and ensure nursing leadership remains at the forefront of healthcare transformation.

The board is composed of 19 leaders, including the AONL CEO, board president, president-elect, treasurer, nine regional directors, five appointed directors and one at-large director. Together, we represent diverse perspectives and work on behalf of our membership to advance the profession.

Our work is guided by AONL's Strategic Plan:

  • Lead, inspire and support the health care workforce 
  • Improve health through advocacy
  • Advance nursing leadership

These priorities are strengthened by a commitment to innovation, technology and eliminating disparities in health care.
As the 2027 election cycle begins, I encourage you to cast your vote for the leaders who will represent your voice, help shape AONL's strategic direction and advance the issues most important to nurse leaders. Your participation helps ensure AONL remains responsive, relevant and representative of our profession.

I also invite you to consider engagement through our member-led groups and look for that volunteer call to come in early fall. The strength of our organization and the future of nursing leadership depend on the active involvement of members like you.

Thank you for your leadership, engagement and commitment to advancing nursing leadership nationwide. I look forward to sharing more in future Leadership Updates.
Ena M Williams

Ena Williams, PhD, RN, CENP, FAAN

President, AONL Board of Directors